SAO Postdoctoral Fellow on the ISM, Star Formation, and Stellar Populations

The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship position within the group of Dr. Catherine Zucker. Our group is working on a diverse set of projects related to the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way and nearby galaxies, the interstellar medium, star formation, and young stellar populations. We welcome applications from candidates interested in working in any of these or related areas, with preference given to candidates interested in developing or utilizing pipelines for modeling the 3D distribution of dust and/or stars with current and future photometric, astrometric, and spectroscopic surveys (e.g. Gaia, JWST, SDSS-V, LSST, Roman, etc.). The fellow will have substantial freedom to propose and pursue their own research within the group. 

Applicants must have a PhD in astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field by the start of the position. Expertise in data analysis and computing is required and familiarity with survey data is preferred. The successful applicant should be able to carry out an independent research program and work collaboratively with students and other members of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian. The position is for three years, subject to annual renewals contingent upon performance. The anticipated start date is Summer or Fall 2024, but earlier start dates are possible. Annual salary for the fellow for the first year will be $77,738 and includes cost-of-living increases in subsequent years. The fellow will also receive full support for health and dental insurance at no cost, which also includes applicable dependents. Funds will also be available to the fellow for travel, publications, and computing. 

Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests, experience, and future plans (maximum 3 pages, not including references) via Academic Jobs Online (AJO). Additionally, arrange for three letters of recommendation to be submitted through AJO. Applications received by December 15th, 2023, will receive full consideration, with letters of recommendation due December 22nd, 2023. Please direct questions about the position to Dr. Catherine Zucker ([email protected]). 

About the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA)

The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) is a joint institution connecting the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) and the Harvard College Observatory (HCO).  The CfA is a diverse astrophysical institution at which more than 800 staff and students are engaged in a broad program of research and education in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth and space sciences. The CfA is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe.   Our research covers theoretical astrophysics, observational ground and space-based astronomy, engineering and technology development, and education.  The research objectives of the CfA are carried out primarily with the support of government, Smithsonian Institution, and Harvard funds, with additional philanthropic support.  At the CfA, the next generation of scientific leaders are being trained and mentored through a broad range of undergraduate and graduate student programs, postdoctoral positions and fellowships.  

The CfA is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a vibrant community in the greater Boston metropolitan area, known for its excellent universities, colleges, and public education, its world renowned medical facilities, a dynamic modern economy, a booming art scene, passionate sports fans, and diverse cultures.  Cambridge is also within a two hour drive to great skiing, hiking in the White, Green or Berkshire mountains, and many Atlantic Ocean beaches. 

The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian fellowships do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, gender stereotyping, pregnancy, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, parental status, or marital status of any applicant.